SUNTV Global Channel | December 27, 2025
The Nigerian military has announced significant gains in its counter-terrorism campaign in the North-East, revealing that 438 Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters were killed within seven months.
The disclosure was made on Saturday in Maiduguri, Borno State, by the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar.
According to Abubakar, the operations, carried out between May and December 2025, resulted in the neutralisation of hundreds of insurgents as troops intensified offensives across key flashpoints in Borno State.
He further stated that troops recovered 254 assorted weapons and seized about 300 Starlink communication devices allegedly used by insurgents for coordination and surveillance. In addition, 366 civilians were rescued from areas previously under terrorist control.
“The surrender of 881 JAS and ISWAP fighters alongside their families further highlights the progress achieved so far,” the theatre commander said, adding that the military remains determined to sustain the momentum of ongoing operations.
Abubakar attributed the reported successes to strategic directives and operational support from the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, whom he credited for boosting frontline effectiveness.
However, despite frequent military announcements of killings, surrenders, and arms recoveries, large parts of the North-East continue to experience insecurity. Residents still report sporadic attacks, ambushes on highways, and assaults on rural communities, while independent verification of military claims remains challenging due to restricted access to conflict zones.
Nonetheless, Abubakar assured Nigerians that troops would “maintain the tempo” of operations until terrorism is completely dismantled in the region.
Reporting by SUNTV Global Channel — Best in News, Sports, and Entertainment.
